Oaxaca cichlid - Vieja zonata

Scientific name: Vieja zonata

Common name: Oaxaca cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 23 - 26 cm (9.06 - 10.24 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8.1

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 7 - 24°N (125 - 428.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 26 °C (73.4 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Central America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Cichlid pellets can be used for the staple diet but the addition of a spirulina flake will be beneficial. Give them treats of chopped earth worms, blood worms, prawns and white fish.

Origin

Central America: Oaxaca cichlids are to be found in the waterways of Mexico.

Sexing

The male will be larger than the female with more colouration. They will also have extended dorsal and anal fins whereas the females will be rounded. The males may also develop a nuchal hump when mature.

Breeding

A spawning site will be selected; usually a flat rock and the eggs will be deposited on it. During this time keep an eye on the female as the male will become very aggressive. The eggs should hatch 2-3 days later and a few days after that the fry will be free swimming. The fry can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or crushed flake.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Vieja zonata is 10 years.

Short description

Never keep Vieja zonata will smaller cichlids as they are classed as aggressive. Any décor added to the tank will be moved around unless firmly fixed in place.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.